Iraola hails Liverpool’s character after dramatic Champions League win over Atletico

Andoni Iraola praised Liverpool’s resilience after they recovered from a difficult start to beat Atletico de Madrid 2-1 at Anfield in the opening round of the Champions League league phase.

Speaking to TNT Sports, the Liverpool manager said he was pleased with the way his players responded after Atletico’s tactical approach initially caused problems.

“It is difficult to ask for more. I think we showed great character, especially the players after the difficult start,” Iraola said.

Liverpool fell behind before turning the match around, securing victory in an entertaining contest at Anfield. The result gave Iraola the chance to reflect both on his team’s performance and on the atmosphere inside the stadium.

“I loved everything. The atmosphere was amazing, and I feel lucky to experience something like this,” he said.

Iraola also accepted that he bore some responsibility for Liverpool’s slow opening. He admitted Atletico had surprised him with the way they set up, particularly their decision to use a back five in a 5-3-2 formation.

“I think I have to take some responsibility for the start because they surprised me a little tactically. They played with five defenders in a 5-3-2 system. We expected something different and had to wait until we were able to correct that,” Iraola added.

The manager felt Liverpool improved significantly after half-time. The home side pressed with greater intensity and, in Iraola’s view, became the stronger team as the match progressed.

“After the break, we played a much better match, we pressed better, and I think we were the better team,” he said.

Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai scored Liverpool’s goals as the hosts overturned the deficit. Iraola praised both players for their contribution, singling out the quality of their finishes and the work they put into the game.

“Alexis Mac Allister’s goal was great for him, and so was Dominik Szoboszlai’s. They both worked very hard,” Iraola said.

He also defended Mac Allister after the midfielder received an early yellow card. Iraola believed the booking was harsh and said Atletico attempted to provoke the player into receiving a second caution.

“Alexis was very clever, and I think the first yellow card he received was very harsh,” he said.

“They were trying to press him into getting a second one. He is an intelligent player, managed the situation well and avoided being sent off.”

Liverpool’s victory came in the first round of the new Champions League league phase, which features 36 teams. Each side plays eight matches during the phase.

The leading eight teams in the table qualify directly for the last 16. Teams finishing from ninth to 16th enter a play-off round for a place in the knockout stage.